What Is Valerian Root?
Valereiana officinalis, or Valerian, is a plant from the Valerianaceae family. It is perennial and native to Asia and Europe.
Valerian root extract is derived from the stems and roots of the Valerian plant.
One of valerian’s most distinctive characteristics is its pungent smell. When the plant’s roots are exposed, they release a powerful aroma.
This is a trait common to most plants in the Valerianaceae family. The smell is generally described as extremely unpleasant.
Valerian Root's Interesting History
Legend has it that the Pied Piper of Hamilton used valerian to lure plague-ridden rats out of Hamelin ...
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Coconut Mixed Berry Smoothie
Sometimes, in the morning, you want bacon and eggs. But other times, you may want something a little lighter and a little sweeter.
For those mornings when your tastebuds want something sweet, this recipe will soon be your go-to. Coconut oil and coconut milk add a creamy, satisfying texture and the berries and banana add the sweetness.
Smoothies are an easy way to get going quickly in the morning. All you have to do is throw the ingredients in a blender and whip it up. Two minutes top. Throw it in a to-go cup, and you can be off to work in no time.
Not to mention, this smoothie gives you a ton of nutrients to start your morning off ...
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Your Journey to a Gluten Free Diet
Whether you're a newbie to a gluten-free diet or you're an old pro, it's kind of funny how everyone's journey is somewhat similar.
I'm not going to lie - when you first choose to go gluten-free, it can be insanely overwhelming. You've heard so much about it. You've seen the gluten-free foods on the shelf at the grocery store. You've probably heard your friends or co-workers talk about it.
But choosing where to start and taking that first step can be intimidating. (Side note - that's why we wrote the Ultimate Guide to a Gluten Free Lifestyle. Be sure to read it.)
But once you finally jump in, the benefits can hit you quickly. And you ...
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Salmon Stuffed Avocados
These salmon stuffed avocados are exactly what you need at your next get-together. Whether you're having friends over for dinner, hosting a Superbowl party, or maybe you just need a quick snack for yourself...these avocados are a crowd pleaser.
A few tips for this recipe - if you're making them in advance for a party or gathering, be sure to make the filling on its own. Then you can cut open the avocados and scoop in the salmon right before you need to serve them.
Also, be sure to grab mini avocados from the store. The small size of mini avocados are better for this recipe versus the bigger ones.
Feel free to play around with what ...
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FYI: Natural Calm
Let's be honest - in today's world, a supplement called Natural Calm sounds more than necessary. Between stressful jobs, a stressful political environment, stressful financial situations, and more, we could all use a little more "calm" in our lives.
But - as I hope you know by now - there is no magic pill to fix anything - even stress. Stress management is multi-faceted and can take lots of work to address it properly.
Natural Calm can help, though, and can be a useful tool in that holistic approach.
What Is Natural Calm?
Natural Calm is a powder-based magnesium supplement. It is taken to address magnesium deficiency.
Natural ...
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Zucchini Hashed Browns
If you miss your starchy hashed browns, this green version will hit the spot. Perfect alongside eggs and bacon or just as a quick veggie side.
Zucchini Hashed Browns
If you miss your starchy hashed browns, this green version will hit the spot. Perfect alongside eggs and bacon or just as a quick veggie side.
1 zucchini (grated)1 egg2 green onions (diced)2 tablespoons olive oilSea salt and fresh ground pepper (to taste)
Combine the zucchini and the egg in a bowl with the green onions.Heat the oil in a skillet and fry spoonfuls of the zucchini until crisp. Serve hot. ...
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Is Corn Healthy?
As a cereal grain, corn is not considered Paleo. That's just the truth of the matter. But here at Ultimate Paleo Guide - we believe that it's incredibly important to be knowledgeable on all types of foods. And we get questions about corn all of the time. And rightly so - it's a staple food in America.
If you follow Paleo (and you probably do somewhat since you're reading this site...), corn is off the table. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't be informed on what corn actually is - and if it's "healthy" or not.
That's the goal of this article. If you want to read all about why grains, like corn, aren't considered Paleo - check out our ...
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Slow Cooked Mushrooms
Mushrooms take on new life when slow cooked in olive oil and herbs. Use these to top steaks, add to salads, or even enjoy as a side.
Slow Cooked Mushrooms
Mushrooms take on new life when slow cooked in olive oil and herbs. Use these to top steaks, add to salads, or even enjoy as a side.
2 cups sliced mushrooms2 sprigs thyme2 cloves garlic (smashed)1/4 cup olive oil1/2 cup chicken broth1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Put all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook over low heat for 2 hours. Serve immediately, or cool and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. ...
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What Is Bentonite Clay? How Do I Use It?
What is Bentonite Clay?
Clay is a substance that occurs naturally in nature, made up of soil or rock particles. Before we cover bentonite clay, let’s explore what clay is and what it is used for.
There are a wide range of different clays. They can be formed from materials ranging from glacial debris to ceramic, shales, and mudstones. Each type of clay contains clay minerals, or hydrous aluminium phyllosilicates. This compound usually contains other essential minerals, for example iron or magnesium. (Source)
The majority of clays are formed by a process known as weathering. The natural components that make up clay are broken down ...
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Coconut Almond Pancakes
These are not the fluffy buttermilk pancakes you may be used to, but they still satisfy that craving for pancakes. Hearty, fiber rich, and filling, they are perfect for busy mornings when you don’t know when lunch will come.
Coconut Almond Pancakes
These are not the fluffy buttermilk pancakes you may be used to, but they still satisfy that craving for pancakes. Hearty, fiber rich, and filling, they are perfect for busy mornings when you don’t know when lunch will come.
1 cup almond flour1/2 cup coconut flakes1/2 teaspoon baking soda1/2 teaspoon sea salt1/2 teaspoon cinnamon1 egg1 tablespoon maple syrup1 tablespoon vanilla1/4 ...
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